To everyone who joined us for the 39th Annual Society of Indian Psychologists Convention in Logan, Utah, thank you. Your presence, knowledge, generosity, and willingness to share your stories made this year's gathering a meaningful reminder of the strength found in community. Whether you attended as an Elder, student, psychologist, healer, researcher, advocate, or ally, you helped create a space where Indigenous voices were honored, relationships were strengthened, and our shared commitment to the well-being of Indigenous Peoples continued to grow. We are grateful for each of you and look forward to staying connected as we carry the spirit of the convention into the months ahead.

As we move through July, many communities across Turtle Island experience this season in different ways. National celebrations such as Canada Day and Independence Day may bring joy, connection, and family traditions for some, while for many relative they can also evoke complex emotions tied to histories of displacement, loss, resilience, and survival.

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Its important to recognize that multiple truths can exist at once. It is possible to honor family, community, and country while also acknowledging the historical experiences that continue to shape Indigenous health and well-being today. Holding space for these complexities is an important part of healing.

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This month, we encourage all, students, professionals, and community members to stay connected with one another. Reach out to family, spend time on the land, participate in cultural practices, gather with your community, or simply allow yourself the grace to experience whatever emotions arise. Healing is strengthened through connection, not isolation.

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We also invite psychologists, counselors, educators, healthcare professionals, and allies to approach this season with cultural humility and curiosity. Some clients may experience increased grief, anxiety, identity conflict, or emotional fatigue during periods of national celebration. Creating space for these conversations (without assumptions or judgment) can foster psychological safety, validation, and resilience.

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Let us remain committed to advancing Indigenous psychology, honoring our diverse stories, and supporting the wellness of Indigenous communities throughout the year. Our stories continue to carry strength, wisdom, and hope, reminding us that healing is not only an individual journey, but a collective one.

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Films

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At your discretion, check out the following films discussing the sentiment around Canada's day and the 4th of July: 

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• Canada Day: A Nation's Mixed Emotions

• Canoe Carry Me Home

• "Four Faces of the Moon" - Canada's dark colonial past | Animated Short Doc

• Rebecca Nagle’s ‘First America’ amplifies Native voices.. what does the Independence mean?

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Holding Mental Health with Compassion

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If you or someone you love is experiencing emotional distress, crisis, or thoughts of self-harm, support is available:

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• United States: Call or text 988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7)

• Canada: Talk Suicide Canada at 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645 (evenings)

• StrongHearts Native Helpline (U.S.): 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483) — confidential, culturally-grounded support for Native and Indigenous peoples affected by violence

• If you are in immediate danger, please contact local emergency services
   

If you are outside these regions, we encourage reaching out to local Indigenous organizations, health centers, or community leaders for culturally relevant support.

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Psychology, Insurance, and Policy Updates for 2025–2026

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Updates: The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released the CY2025 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule on July 10, 2024. Find more info: https://www.apaservices.org/practice/reimbursement/government/cms-federal-rule 
 

Medicare changes in 2025. The final rule on the 2025 Medicare physician fee schedule brings some good news for psychologists and aims to increase access to behavioral health services. https://www.apaservices.org/practice/reimbursement/government/2025-medicare-changes
 

Extensions of Telehealth access options. https://telehealth.hhs.gov/providers/telehealth-policy/telehealth-policy-updates.
But how are the Reservations embracing digital sovereignty? 
 

Digital mental health treatment: CMS expanded payment policies for digital mental health treatment devices under codes G0552, G0553, and G0554 for CY 2026.

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Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act Final Rules (“Final Rules”) Are Released: Plans and Issuers Must Prepare for January 1, 2025 Effective Date (US). Find more info: https://www.triagehealthlawblog.com/hhs/mental-health-parity-and-addiction-equity-act-final-rules-final-rules-are-released-plans-and-issuers-must-prepare-for-january-1-2025-effective-date-us/ .Mental Health Parity: The 2024 Mental Health Parity final rule had staggered applicability dates beginning in 2025 and 2026, but federal agencies later announced a pause in enforcement of certain new provisions while they reconsider the rule.